Habitat for Humanity embarks on 10-million penny challenge

As the penny prepares to go the way of the dollar and two-dollar bills in Canada, Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay is hoping to cash in.

The organization, which builds houses for needy families, providing low-interest mortgages to allow them to escape the rental cycle, on Tuesday started a ten-million penny campaign, in hopes of raising $100,000, enough money to build one extra house this year.

“In light of the federal government announcement that the penny will no longer be produced, this seems like the perfect time for the community to reach deep into their pockets, drawers, and change purses and come together to donate their unwanted pennies to Habitat,” said CEO Diane Mitchell in a release.

“Canada’s finance minister himself said for people to donate their pennies to charity. Extra change can definitely do some good for our organization and a local family in need.”

The collection is taking place at the Habitat Restore on Squier Street, with tax receipts given to those who bring them in properly rolled.
And the size of your roll does matter, Mitchell said.

Everyone bringing in pennies to the Restore will not go home empty handed. The Restore will offer a half-percent discount for every pound of pennies brought in. So if you bring in 10 pounds of pennies, you will get a five per cent discount.  Spring is the time for home renovations so you could be doing some great updates for just pennies.”

The Royal Canadian Mint will stop producing pennies this month and stop distributing them this fall.